Discover 6 Top Vegan Restaurants and Markets in Lake Charles
by Chris Lanthier, Lake Charles Vegans
As health awareness surges globally, it's inspiring to see more Lake Charles residents embracing veganism.
A plant-based, raw, or vegan diet helps many resolve health challenges. Veganism excludes all animal products. For me, it's transformative—it reversed my chronic illness through raw foods and detoxification.
With a vibrant local vegan community, here are my top spots for delicious vegan eats in Lake Charles.
The Velvet Pig
Nicole's rotating menu features 90% vegan and gluten-free dishes, all exceptional. Favorites: egg rolls, veggie burgers, black bean nachos, enchiladas, bánh mì, curries, pad Thai, portobello mushroom pesto sandwich, vegan BBQ, stuffed squash with marinara, drunken noodles, and vegan cupcakes. Find the food truck Thursdays and Fridays, 5-9 p.m., at Crying Eagle Brewing, or Tuesdays, 4-6 p.m., at Cash and Carry Farmers Market.
BONUS: The Velvet Pig offers vegan/Cajun cooking classes. Follow on Facebook for updates.
Main Squeeze
Perfect for juice cleanses or yoga classes—love owners Matt and Miranda. Top picks: Awaken juice (apple, lemon, ginger, cinnamon) for an energizing start, and açai berry bowls loaded with hemp seeds, berries, and granola.
Toga Grill
A Lebanese vegan paradise with delicious, affordable options. Try the vegan sampler, salad, or nachos. The owner happily assists with menu questions.
LOCAL TIP: Ask for chef Sammi—he'll craft creative vegan masterpieces once he knows your preferences.
Raja's Curry Kitchen and Grill
My favorite for Indian cuisine. Daily buffet (11 a.m.-4 p.m.) offers up to four vegan choices: aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower), chana (chickpea) masala, eggplant curry, okra, lentils, and spinach. Chana is a standout. Just mention you're vegan for tailored help.
Lynn’s Living Foods
100% raw, creative dishes like wraps, jicama tacos, falafel plates, quesadillas, desserts, and homegrown sprouts. Comforting and stunning. Available Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon, at Charlestown Farmers Market. Lynn also teaches cooking and sprouting classes.
Cash and Carry Market
This farmers market is a vegan haven. Highlights: Pure Press Juicery (amazing beet juice), Saiyan Foods (must-try ziti), Wholly Sweets and Foods (cinnamon rolls shine), and Bottom of the Pot pop-up (pistachio hummus, grape leaf rolls, falafel, plus rotating vegan specials). Staff are vegan-friendly.
This scratches the surface of Lake Charles' vegan scene. Stay tuned for more. Share your favorites in the comments. Stay healthy, Lake Charles.
Connect with Lake Charles Vegans on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lakecharlesvegans.
